At Ottawa City Hall, LWG was engaged to reimagine one of the most overlooked components of civic infrastructure: the public washroom. The result is a groundbreaking, fully gender-neutral facility that challenges conventional norms and sets a new benchmark for inclusive municipal design. Moving beyond binary, utilitarian layouts, the project replaces segregated facilities with private, floor-to-ceiling enclosed toilet rooms and a shared central hygiene zone. This model affirms dignity, autonomy, and accessibility for all users—including those who are gender-diverse, caregivers, individuals with disabilities, and anyone seeking a safer, more welcoming public space.
Designed through a hospitality lens, the space incorporates soft lighting, acoustically balanced surfaces, and natural materials to create a calm, emotionally supportive environment. A nursing lounge and universal washroom further extend the facility’s inclusivity. By applying thoughtful, human-centered design to a highly functional space, this project elevates civic infrastructure and signals the City of Ottawa’s commitment to equity and care. It stands as a replicable model for progressive public design, advancing both policy dialogue and professional practice.
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